What is the monthly cost of the Medical Guardian Alert system?

According to the National Council on Aging, Medical Guardian devices range in cost from $32–$47 a month, with exact pricing depending on the specific model and payment plan. Understanding what is the monthly cost of the Medical Guardian Alert system requires a breakdown of various factors beyond the base subscription, including potential equipment fees and extra services like automatic fall detection.

Quick Summary

The monthly cost for Medical Guardian systems varies by model and payment schedule, ranging from approximately $32 to $47 per month, plus one-time equipment fees for most mobile devices. Optional features, such as fall detection and a protection plan, add to the base subscription price. Long-term payment options can provide a lower effective monthly rate.

Key Points

• Variable Monthly Fees: Medical Guardian's monthly cost ranges from approximately $32 to $47, depending on the system type, with annual plans offering the best value.

• Equipment Fees and Add-ons: Most mobile systems require a one-time equipment fee ($149–$199), and additional services like fall detection ($10/month) increase the total cost.

• At-Home Options: For home-only coverage, prices range from $31.95/month (landline, no equipment fee) to $38.95/month (cellular, $149 equipment fee).

• Mobile Options: On-the-go systems like the MGMini, MGMini Lite, and MGMove smartwatch cost between $42.95 and $46.95 per month, plus an equipment fee.

• Fast Response Times: Medical Guardian is praised for its very fast emergency response times, averaging around eight seconds in recent hands-on tests.

• Flexible Contracts: The company offers flexible month-to-month contracts and provides prorated refunds upon cancellation, though a 90-day minimum may apply.

• Potential for Savings: Discounts are available through quarterly or annual payments, and some insurance plans or Health Savings Accounts may cover costs.

Breakdown of Medical Guardian's Monthly Costs

Medical Guardian offers several medical alert systems designed for different lifestyles, from homebodies to active seniors. The primary cost is the monthly monitoring fee, which covers 24/7 access to their monitoring center. However, the total monthly cost can increase with one-time equipment fees and various optional add-ons.

At-Home Systems

Medical Guardian's at-home systems are designed for users who spend most of their time in or around their home. They come with a base unit and a wearable, water-resistant button that can be worn as a pendant or wristband.

• MGHome Landline: This is the most affordable plan, starting around $31.95 per month when billed monthly. It connects via a landline and typically does not require an upfront equipment fee. However, paying annually can reduce the effective monthly cost.
• MGHome Cellular: For users without a landline, this system connects via a cellular network. The monthly cost is higher, starting around $38.95 per month, and it includes a one-time equipment fee of approximately $149.

Mobile Systems

For more active individuals, Medical Guardian offers mobile units that provide protection on the go, utilizing GPS technology to pinpoint the user's location anywhere with cellular service.

• MGMini: A small, lightweight pendant with GPS and Wi-Fi location tracking, this all-in-one device costs around $43.95 per month with a one-time equipment fee of approximately $149.
• MGMini Lite: This wrist-worn device is even lighter than the MGMini and costs approximately $46.95 per month. It also carries a one-time equipment fee of around $149.
• MGMove Smartwatch: This modern medical alert watch includes features like step tracking and weather updates. It starts at about $42.95 per month, plus a one-time equipment fee of approximately $199.

Additional Costs and Add-ons

Several optional features can increase the total monthly cost of a Medical Guardian system. Many reviewers consider these add-ons essential for comprehensive protection.

• Fall Detection: For an extra $10 per month, Medical Guardian offers an automatic fall detection pendant. This is especially crucial for individuals at high risk of falling, as it automatically alerts the monitoring center if a fall is detected, even if the user is unable to press the button.
• Protection Plan: For $6.99 per month, a protection plan covers accidental damage, defects, and normal wear and tear, and provides free battery replacements.
• Lockbox: An entryway lockbox for keys is available for an extra $2.99 per month. This allows emergency responders to enter the home without damaging the property.
• Caregiver Alerts (OnGuard): For $2.99 per month, this service sends real-time text and email alerts to a caregiver or family member whenever the help button is pressed or a fall is detected.

Medical Guardian Costs vs. Competitors

To provide a clearer picture of Medical Guardian's pricing, here is a comparison with a major competitor, Bay Alarm Medical, based on information from recent reviews.

Feature	Medical Guardian (approx.)	Bay Alarm Medical (approx.)	Notes
Lowest In-Home Plan (Monthly)	$31.95 (landline)	$27.95 (landline)	Pricing can vary based on payment plan.
In-Home Cellular Plan (Monthly)	$38.95	$37.95	Similar monthly costs, but Bay Alarm may include free equipment.
In-Home Equipment Fee	$0 for landline; $149 for cellular	$0 for both systems	Bay Alarm has an advantage here with no equipment fees on its home systems.
Mobile System (Monthly)	$43.95 (MGMini)	$34.95 (SOS Mobile)	Medical Guardian's mobile options can be more expensive.
Mobile Equipment Fee	$149–$199	$0	Bay Alarm typically has no upfront equipment costs for mobile devices.
Automatic Fall Detection	+$10 per month	+$10 per month	Standard pricing for this add-on across both companies.
Response Time (Average)	8 seconds	16 seconds	Medical Guardian generally boasts faster average response times.
Contracts and Cancellation	No long-term contracts; prorated refunds	No long-term contracts; 30-day trial	Both offer flexibility, but check for potential restocking fees from Medical Guardian.

Potential Ways to Save on Your Medical Guardian System

To make a Medical Guardian system more affordable, consider the following money-saving strategies:

• Choose a longer payment plan. Opting for a quarterly or annual subscription rather than a monthly one can significantly lower your effective monthly rate. For example, paying annually for the MGHome Landline system lowers the monthly equivalent price.
• Inquire about insurance coverage. Some private insurance companies and certain Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans may offer partial or full coverage for medical alert systems. It's recommended to contact your insurance provider directly.
• Use your HSA or FSA. You may be able to use a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) to pay for your Medical Guardian system.
• Look for discounts. As noted by Celina Hawthorne, OTR, OTD, OTA, looking for discounts through community organizations, veterans' groups, senior centers, or local agencies can help lower the cost.

Conclusion

What is the monthly cost of the Medical Guardian Alert system is not a single number, but a range that depends on the chosen model and optional features. While prices are slightly higher than some competitors, Medical Guardian is highly rated for its reliability and fast response times. The base monthly fee for a landline system is the most budget-friendly, while mobile systems with GPS tracking and added fall detection cost more. Before committing, consider your individual needs, activity level, and budget. Taking advantage of long-term payment plans or checking for insurance coverage can help make the cost more manageable. You can compare Medical Guardian against other top-rated providers to ensure you select the best system for your specific circumstances.

Sources

• National Council on Aging: Medical Guardian Review in 2025
• The Senior List: Medical Guardian Costs, Our Hands-On Analysis
• AssistedLiving.org: Medical Guardian: Plans, Features & Pricing
• SafeHome.org: Medical Guardian Reviews 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest Medical Guardian plan?

The most affordable Medical Guardian plan is the MGHome Landline, which costs approximately $31.95 per month for a month-to-month plan and does not require an upfront equipment fee.

Are there any upfront fees for Medical Guardian?

Most Medical Guardian systems, particularly the mobile units, have a one-time equipment fee ranging from $149 to $199. The MGHome Landline is the main exception and does not have an equipment fee.

How much does automatic fall detection cost with Medical Guardian?

Automatic fall detection is an optional feature that costs an extra $10 per month. This is available for most systems, excluding the MGMove smartwatch.

Can I save money on my Medical Guardian plan?

Yes, you can save money by choosing a quarterly or annual payment plan, which lowers the effective monthly cost. You can also check if your health insurance, HSA, or FSA covers the cost.

Does Medical Guardian require a long-term contract?

No, Medical Guardian does not require a long-term contract. You can choose a monthly plan and cancel at any time, though a 90-day minimum commitment might be necessary, and potential restocking fees may apply.

Does Medical Guardian charge a cancellation fee?

Medical Guardian does not charge a cancellation fee. If you paid upfront for an annual or quarterly plan and cancel, you will receive a prorated refund for unused service, minus any potential restocking fee.

Is Medical Guardian a good medical alert system?

Medical Guardian is highly rated, praised for its reliable and fast emergency response times (as low as 8 seconds) and wide range of device options. However, some reviews note that the service is on the more expensive side.

How do I choose the right Medical Guardian plan?

The right plan depends on your lifestyle. If you primarily stay at home, the MGHome landline or cellular system is suitable. If you are active and often leave the house, a mobile system like the MGMini or MGMove smartwatch is a better fit due to GPS tracking.